Of the many beaches and other attractions to see in Phuket, there’s one thing any visiting tourist cannot miss: the night markets. It might sound like just going on another regular, old shopping spree, but night markets in Phuket are like festivals, especially with the intense whirlwind of lights, colors, smells, crowds, and trinkets on display. It can be fascinating and overwhelming at the same time, but one thing is for sure: it gives a Thai experience like no other!
Here are five of the best night markets in Phuket to visit on your next trip:
1. Chillva Market
Chillva Market is found in Phuket Town by the side of Yaowarat Road and is open from Monday to Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm. It’s one of the trendier night markets in Phuket and is great for food enthusiasts, shoppers, and those on a budget. A sight to see in this particular night market are the shipping containers used as storefronts painted in bright colors.
2. Phuket Weekend Market
The largest on the island, Phuket Weekend Market has everything you’d ever expect from a night market. As the name suggests, it’s open only during the weekends from 4 pm to 11 pm, so be ready to deal with crowds if you decide to shop here. You’ll be sure to find clothes, souvenirs, gadgets, secondhand items, and of course, food.
If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop night market, you can find Phuket Weekend Market along Wirat Hong Yok Road in Phuket Town.
3. Phuket Walking Street
If you’re looking for more sights to see, Phuket Walking Street is the night market for you. Old Sino-Portuguese houses line the entire street where this night market is found, and you’ll see the stalls selling souvenirs, Thai handicrafts, food, and the usual fashion and food finds. You may even chance upon a street performer between your shopping and eating.
Phuket Walking Street is open only on Sundays (4 pm to 10 pm) along Thalang Road in Phuket Town.
4. Karon Temple Market
Karon Temple Market is so famous mostly because of the temple itself, and it continues to attract crowds every Tuesday and Friday, where it’s open between 4 pm to 10 pm. Here you’ll find cheap clothing, souvenirs, beauty products, as well as plenty of fruit and local foods. If you’re looking for a night market experience that has more sightseeing involved, be sure to check this one out.
5. Kathu Market
You can find Kathu Market halfway between Patong Beach and Phuket Town. Not only can you do your shopping here, but you also have the option to relax and enjoy some food and drinks over beers with a few friends and music.
While a relatively new night market, it’s slowly gaining popularity because of its food stalls and bars built into empty recycled containers. There are also live bands that occasionally perform in this area.
Kathu Market is open from 5 pm to 11 pm except on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Conclusion
The best night markets in Phuket have a little something different to offer. It isn’t just about buying things but the entire experience of walking through it as a whole. Along with shopping sprees, you can try out the local flavors and experience some of the local nightlife. Night markets aren’t just shopping centers but a true part of the Thai experience.
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